Information from our Health Services DepartmentInfluenza
In keeping with our policy of informing you about actual and potential health issues, we wanted to provide you with some information about influenza. Influenza is a respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Influenza is very contagious. Symptoms include a high fever, usually above 102 degrees Fahrenheit for 3-4 days, cough can be severe, headache can be severe, body and muscles aches that can be severe, and sometimes you will have nausea/vomiting/runny nose/sore throat/ sneezing. To prevent influenza you should get the influenza vaccine every year, wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer, keep hands away from face, do not share food/drinks with someone who is sick, cough into a tissue or into your elbow. Children should remain at home until 24 hours after the fever has gone. Students with symptoms of influenza should be picked up from school as soon as possible. If you need more information, please see the nurse
Gastrointestinal Viruses
In keeping with our policy of informing you about actual and potential health issues, we wanted to provide you with some information about gastrointestinal illnesses that are caused by viruses. Gastrointestinal viral illnesses are contagious and can lead to dehydration from vomiting and/or diarrhea. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps and a low-grade fever. They usually only last a few days. To prevent gastrointestinal illnesses you should wash your hands thoroughly, cleanse kitchen and bathrooms thoroughly, cook all foods properly and thoroughly, keep hands and other hand held items away from mouth and face, get plenty of rest, eat properly and stay hydrated. You should not share food/drinks with someone who is feeling sick. If you need more information, please see the nurse.